In a story that defies the typical trajectory of professional sports careers, Philip Rivers is once again a starting quarterback in the National Football League. At 44 years old, the veteran signal-caller has come out of a five-year retirement to lead the Indianapolis Colts, a move that has captivated fans and former teammates alike.
A Reunion in Canton and an Unforeseen Return
The improbable journey began to take shape last August in Canton, Ohio, home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Rivers gathered there with former teammates Shawne Merriman and Drew Brees to celebrate the Hall of Fame induction of tight end Antonio Gates. The weekend was filled with storytelling and camaraderie, but the topic of a return to the field never came up.
"We didn't talk about playing again," recalled Merriman, the former star linebacker for the San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills. "That wasn't on anybody's mind. We talked about the games we played." At that time, Brees was settled into television work, Merriman was growing his mixed martial arts promotion, Lights Out, and Rivers appeared to be comfortably retired.
The Mind Over Athleticism: How Rivers Does It
So how is it possible for a 44-year-old to not only return to the NFL but to start at its most demanding position? According to Merriman, Rivers' unique skill set makes him the exception. "His game was never built off his athleticism," Merriman explained. "He's never been one of those uber-athletes. He's not the most athletic guy in the world, but he might be the most competitive teammate I've ever played with. He uses his head, his brain and that gets him in the game."
This cerebral approach has allowed Rivers to step back in with surprising effectiveness. In his first start of the 2025 season, he nearly led the Colts to a victory over a strong Seattle Seahawks team, immediately proving he still belongs. Merriman, now an avid viewer, admitted, "I watch a lot of football, but I haven't paid a lot of attention to the Colts most of the season. Now I'm watching every snap."
Merriman's New Arena and Lasting Football Bonds
While Rivers commands the spotlight on the field, Merriman has built a successful post-NFL career. His MMA promotion, Lights Out Xtreme Fighting—named for his own football nickname—has grown significantly. He recently secured a major, long-term broadcasting deal with ESPN to distribute his events in Latin America, with potential expansion to markets like Australia and Canada.
Despite his business success, Sundays are still for football. Merriman remains a loyal fan of his former teams, the Los Angeles Chargers and the Buffalo Bills. He praised Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert as "the toughest quarterback in the NFL" and credited head coach Jim Harbaugh for the team's resilience. Of the Bills, he expressed admiration but noted their frustrating inconsistency.
Yet, his primary focus on a recent Monday night was squarely on his old friend. Rivers was set to start his second game of the season against the San Francisco 49ers, and Merriman wouldn't miss it. Reflecting on their six seasons together with the Chargers, Merriman offered the ultimate compliment. "He's a guy you would run through a wall for, every week... I played with some players and some great people over the years but Phil is a once in a lifetime kind of person."
Philip Rivers' return is more than a sports curiosity; it's a testament to enduring competitiveness, football intelligence, and a passion that retirement couldn't extinguish. At 44, he is authoring a unique and inspiring final chapter to his legendary career.
